Sylacauga’s Lake Howard to host 7th Annual Skyway Epic bike race

SYLACAUGA, Ala. – The sixth-annual Skyway Epic mountain bike race held at the Lake Howard (Sylaward) trail system in Sylacauga is set for Saturday, April 8.

For those not familiar with the Skyway Epic, it is described as a “back-country endurance” style race sending riders from the Sylaward trail system all the way to Vigo, Alabama by forest service roads and the Skyway Motorway.

The racers competing all the way to Vigo will be participating in the 200 mile category that spans two days. This race forces riders to be self-sufficient with nutrition and mechanical supplies. This category is new for 2017. It features a mix of trails, smooth service roads, rougher “jeep” roads and over 20,000 feet of climbing. Officials anticipate an average total completion time for this 200 mile course of 25 hours.

For the average biker who simply wants to enjoy a small challenge, there are two more categories to compete in. These two categories feature 60 and 100 mile courses which will be covered in one day. These courses are considered “supported” races, meaning racers will be supplied with aid stations throughout the courses which are stocked with food, water and supplies to use while racing.

In the past, the Skyway Epic has drawn racers from Alabama, Texas, California, Tennessee, Georgia, Florida, Louisiana and Mississippi.

“The Talladega National Forest is one of the most beautiful, scenic, diverse and underrated outdoor destinations in the south,” said Sylacauga’s manager for Lake Howard Billy Beane. “This race will uncover its beauty to participants from all around the country.”

On site registration at Lake Howard will take place Friday, April 7, from 4-8 p.m. and Saturday, April 8, from 6-8 a.m. The 100 mile race starts at 7 a.m. Saturday, and the 60 mile race starts at 9 a.m. For more information on the Skyway Epic click here.

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